Description
This hearty and comforting soup is perfect for a chilly day! It features savory Italian sausage, tender cheese tortellini, and fresh vegetables all simmered in a rich, flavorful broth. Quick to make and full of cozy flavors, this soup is sure to be a family favorite.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups (32 oz) chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, roughly chopped
- 1 package (9 oz) cheese tortellini (fresh or frozen)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a large pot, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Remove excess grease if necessary. If the sausage doesn’t release enough fat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes or until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 10–15 minutes.
- Add Tortellini: Stir in the tortellini and cook according to the package instructions (typically 5–7 minutes for fresh tortellini, longer for frozen).
- Add Spinach: Stir in the spinach and let it wilt for 1–2 minutes.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Notes
- For a creamier version, add 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half in step 5 after adding the tortellini.
- Substitute kale for spinach if preferred.
- For a vegetarian option, use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg